ADVISORY

UPDATE, February 2007 -- In September 2006, Governor Edward G. Rendell announced $4.8 million in grants to help Lehigh County upgrade Leaser Lake. The funds were made available through a number of sources, including $750,000 from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Community Conservation Partnerships Program, $2.25 million from the Growing Greener II initiative – including $1.75 million in funds earmarked for use by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission – and $1.8 million through the state’s capital budget. The state grants will be used in conjunction with $500,000 from Lehigh County to make repairs to Leaser Lake dam and improvements to the surrounding areas. Specific projects include major upgrades to the spillway and work to stop seepage through the dam’s earthen walls. The cost of the project is estimated at $5.7 million.

Related Press Releases
-- Fish & Boat Commission opens Leaser Lake to all fishing -- July 2008
-- Fish and Boat Commission to raise water level of Leaser Lake -- April 2008
-- Gov. Rendell announces $4.8 million to repair Leaser Lake Dam, improve surrounding park areas -- Sept. 2006

Located in Lehigh County, Leaser Lake is a 117-acre impoundment owned by the Commonwealth and managed by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC). Leaser Lake is currently maintained at a pool size of about 40 acres, with a depth of 24 feet versus the normal pool of 117 acres and maximum depth of 45 feet.

The PFBC leases the public use areas around the lake to Lehigh County [Lehigh County Government Recreation Leaser Lake page] and has done so since June 23, 1970. Lehigh County maintains park facilities and is responsible for maintenance of the areas used by lake visitors.

FISHING

Leaser Lake offers excellent warmwater fishing opportunities. The Commission stocks the lake with trout a number of times throughout the year. Access for shore fishing is good. Fish habitat structures have been placed in the lake over the years as part of the Commission's Cooperative Fish Habitat Improvement Program.

Panfish Enhancement Special Regulations are in effect at the lake. All other species of fish are managed under Commonwealth Inland Waters regulations.

BOATING

Boating is limited to boats powered by electric motors and un-powered boats. There are 2 access points and associated parking facilities, both have a surfaced launch ramp.

Un-powered boats may be moored at the lake in accordance with Commission property regulations. To be used at the lake, boats must be registered or have a valid launch permit (permits are issued by the Commission or PA Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources).